Granite or quartz counters

Quartz contains recycled content, making it an environmentally conscious choice, says architect Matthew Coates, president of Coates Design Architects in Bainbridge Island, Wash. It also has a uniform appearance. Expect to pay $70 to $90 per square foot installed.

Granite remains popular, and its many variations can make it attractive and unique. You'll pay a bit more at $80 to $120 per square foot.

However, granite can stain if not sealed properly, which diminishes your counter’s look, Coates says.

"Another popular trend is to use salvaged or recycled content for your countertops," he says.

For example, if you’re redoing your kitchen, you may be able to cut a vanity top out of your old counter.

When looking at materials to cut costs, concrete countertops are another inexpensive and current trend that also has recycled content, Coates says.